Backyard ponds are not only for the rich and now the average homeowner can start building a backyard pond that is just as luxurious as those on wealthy estates.
Once you get your backyard pond set up, you can focus on adding some beautiful landscaping elements to it.
By building a pond you will provide a dwelling place for the fish, wildlife, aquatic plants, and flowers.
It is a rewarding hobby that not only provides relaxation but appreciation for Mother Nature as well.
Thinking About Building A Backyard Pond? Plan Ahead!
Building your own backyard pond need not be extremely hard, but thorough planning should be placed in constructing one.
The hardest part of building one is digging the pond. It all depends on what type of soil your region has. This determines how easy or how strenuous the digging part would be.
Of course, you can choose the easy path and rent a backhoe to do the digging or hire a contractor to do it.
Before you start digging you need to know if there are utility lines in your backyard.
You also need to know where your septic tank and drain field are located if you have one.
Pond Size And Shape
The size and shape of the pond will depend on your preferences. It can be a small preformed pond or one that needs a pond liner that can hold many thousands of gallons of water.
If you are planning a koi pond you will need a large pond but if you are planning a garden pond with some goldfish it can be much smaller.
Generally speaking a square or rectangular pond is easier and cheaper to build and filter.
Pond Location
Consider the location of your pond. Where would it be best seen? Picture yourself sitting outside. What location grabs your eye the most?
Consider these important elements. Is the water source situated nearby? Is your pond’s location a flat area? Is an electrical supply available?
Keep in mind that these are just some questions that need to be answered before you start digging.
Pond Equipment
Building a pond of any size requires some tools and the necessary equipment to run and maintain your backyard pond.
In building and constructing any pond, you will need a water pump at a minimum to recirculate the water.
Still water will breed mosquitos. So you will want to add a waterfall or fountain to help aerate your pond and help water movement.
A UV filter can help keep algae growth down. You should also add a pond filter, and likely you will want some pond plants also.
Other must-haves are the following: a pond liner of appropriate size or a preformed pond.
Preformed ponds are convenient but most will be too small for koi. However, they can make it very easy to build an attractive water garden.
Add in an air diffuser, pond lighting, a skimmer, fish, and fish food.
Get Started With A Koi Pond Kit
Savio makes great stuff. I use their skimmer and waterfall in my pond. This kit is good for 1000-1800 gallon fish ponds. More sizes are available on Amazon.
Pond Cost
Another thing to consider in pond building is the cost. Initially, constructing and maintaining the pond could be quite expensive.
The larger your pond the more it will cost. Koi ponds will be the most expensive. But building a water garden is much cheaper.
So know your budget and choose a pond size you can afford. A completed small pond is better than a large pond where you need to cut corners.
But there are now cheaper do-it-yourself kits available in the market. Once it is finished, the enjoyment it brings is worth it.
Another plus for the backyard pond is that it turns an otherwise boring piece of land into a vibrant thing of beauty.
It works best if you have the proper landscape to go with your pond. Make your pond the centerpiece of your backyard.
However, many do-it-yourself pond builders usually make mistakes. Following these guidelines may help you avoid the pitfalls of do-it-yourself backyard pond disasters.
Initially, it is important to incorporate your pond to the current landscape of your backyard.
This works best for the amateur landscaper who just desires to get right down to work.
Do not let your pond detract from the beauty of your yard. Make it fit and not look out of place.
Backyard Pond Design Tips
Integrate your pond’s design into your landscape. Do not make it lavish if you have a very simple backyard.
Take time to choose a design that flatters but blends with the overall landscaping.
Secondly, think of the essential requirements of a pond. Don’t place your pond in complete shade because this will restrict the amount of sunlight in your pond.
Aquatic animals and plants need an ample amount of warmth and sun.
Finally, size does matter. Plan the size of your pond. Do not stock too many fish in a small pond. Experiment with a variety of aquatic plants.
You can provide some sparkle and relaxation to your yard as well as increase your property’s value.
Make your backyard more attractive and enjoyable by adding a backyard pond.
